Hansel and Gretel

Hansel and Gretel is a pantomime that is a classic and is based on German oral folk traditions collected by the Brothers Grim tale. The story reflects the hardships of the late middle ages in Europe, specifically the 14th century Great Famine where starving families often abandoned their children. The children who have been abandoned are featured as outwitting ogres or witches.

This pantomime has the traditional Dame – Peggy Pumpernickel played by Ian Little who was a strong character and embraced the comedic role of dame. Ian was confident in engaging with the audience and was ably assisted by Wally played by Kate Bidwell who provided non-stop entertainment in her interaction with the audience too. Yes, some of their jokes made us “moan” but that is what pantomime is about and the slapstick comedy you both delivered with ease. I must say I found the timber sketch with the axes very funny.

Hilderguard (Diane Renner) and Fritz (Jonathan Scott) were well cast and captured the contrasting parent roles of wicked stepmother and caring father extremely well. In their role as the parents of Hansel and Gretel, Diane whilst not cast as a villain certainly portrayed a villain’s characteristics and for this you should be commended. It was easy for the audience to dislike you and your performance of Little Girls, from the musical Annie, was sung with feeling and intense frustration at being a step-mother. Well done.

Hansel (Jack Grieve) and Gretel (Anna Cooper) again were so well cast. Their narrative was delivered with skill for such young children and we took you into our hearts during your trials and tribulations in the forest. These were major roles for youngsters and you both did a brilliant job. I am sure we will see a lot more from you both on stage. 

Prince Johann (Hannah Bass) and his suitress Heather (Katie Dyson) provided us with the romance we all expect in a pantomime but in the Brothers Grimm fairytale there is no traditional prince and princess. Heather is the daughter of Peggy Pumpernickel and Peggy is delighted to see one of her offspring married off to a prince. You all delivered this eventuality with ease and professionalism and captured the art of romance.

The real villain in this pantomime is Nightshade (Georgia Young) who likes to fatten up children and then enjoys eating them. Georgia your command on the stage makes you a fitting villain and you have a strong voice for solo. Your solo Come On A-My-House was powerful and very fitting and well performed.

Congratulation must also go to Basil (Nicola Hastie) and Nutmeg (Fiona Dunn) for their duet Wherever You Go I Go, from Gypsy. You played you parts so well together and complimented each other.

There is something thrilling about a live band and the band under the direction of Aubrey Sanderson are an integral part of the success of Spittal Variety Group's success on stage. The music was lively and well-rehearsed and the ensemble from the Greatest Showman to close the first act was spectacular.

Your costumes were colourful and pristine. Not a crease to be seen on any garment and matching footwear too. All of this came together to bring us a spectacular show and all are to be congratulated, both on stage and the back stage crew. The digital projections gave us stunning scenery and the investment paid off.

I had a lovely evening of entertainment that was delivered by a smiling cast who were clearly enjoying themselves and who demonstrated what amateur dramatics can achieve. Well done to you all.

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